DISTRICT INFORMATION

Accomplishments are imprints of excellence. And educational excellence is the standard being lauded across Birdville Independent School District.

The community of Birdville formed its pioneer beginnings on the Texas frontier long before the Civil War. Birdville became the first seat of Tarrant County in 1851. It was named for Jonathan Bird, who had established a ranger outpost a few miles down the West Fork of the Trinity River in 1841.

On the location known as Birdville Hill (where the Shannon Education Center stands today), a school was opened in 1858. An official Texas Historical Marker commemorates the site. (Open the "history" section for additional details.)

That pioneering spirit continues today. During the 1994-95 school year, Birdville surpassed many of its records and achieved ambitious goals set by the Birdville ISD Board of Trustees in the areas of academics, athletics, career and technology, staff achievements, parental involvement, fine arts and computer technology.

The board, named The Outstanding School Board in Texas in 1995, is facilitating its vision of Birdville student success in the international marketplace with the adoption of a new mission statement adopted in 1995.

To facilitate that global vision, students are provided access to some of the greatest minds in the world and innovative programs have been initiated.

Birdville sets itself apart from other school districts by being known for its active partnership with the community. BISD works hand-in-hand with its 125 business partners, The Northeast Tarrant Chamber, more than 5,500 volunteers at its 32 campuses, numerous community leaders and parents.

The Tech Prep Program provides opportunities for students to receive college credits for certain Career and Technology Education courses as part of a Tech Prep degree plan. Internships have been established with business/industry partners.

All Birdville campuses have computer labs and library multimedia stations. More than 400 classrooms are equipped with technology. To date, 380 campus classroom presentation systems and 310 student workstations have been installed.

BISD was one of the first districts in the state to obtain a direct connection to the Internet--commonly called the "electronic information superhighway." The district was the second in the state to develop its own home page (an electronic description of the district).

BISD has also added programs to support students who are not performing well at traditional campuses. In addition, innovative activities are planned at the elementary level and curriculum is being expanded in the areas of mathematics and World Geography at the secondary level.

Birdville is increasing participation in more academic programs, and greater emphasis is being placed on Advanced Placement courses for high school students.